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The Milwaukee Art Museum is one of the most family-friendly destinations in the city, with hands-on art activities, kid-focused programs, and plenty of open space for little ones to explore. If you’re looking for the best things to do at the Milwaukee Art Museum with kids, this guide highlights all the parent-approved activities inside the museum — from the wings and light show to Artpacks, story times, and creative play spaces.
💡Looking for more kid-friendly museums? Explore our roundup of the Best Museums for Kids in Milwaukee.
Know Before You Go
- Kids 12 and under are always free.
- Changing tables are on the Café Level and in the East End.
- Strollers are permitted in the galleries; wagons must be stored in the coatroom on the Café Level.
- The wings of the building open with the museum at 10 a.m., flap at noon, and remain open until 10 p.m. when weather allows.
- Windhover Hall is open to the public even if you’re not buying admission.
Quick Picks: Best Things To Do at the Milwaukee Art Museum With Kids
These are the most popular things families love doing at the Milwaukee Art Museum:
- Watch the iconic wings open, flap, and glow
- Explore Windhover Hall
- Kohl’s Art Generation Open Studio
- Artpacks
- Family Sundays
- Play Date with Art
- Story Time in the Galleries
- Youth classes and art camps
- Lakeside at MAM
- Read “A is for Art”
💡Looking for more ideas? See our parent guide to the Best Things To Do in Milwaukee With Kids.
Best Milwaukee Art Museum Activities for Kids
Below you’ll find the most fun things to do with kids at the Milwaukee Art Museum – all based on real family experiences and programs.
1. Watch the Wings & Light Show
The Burke Brise Soleil — the iconic “wings” — open and close every day when the museum does, flap at noon, and (weather permitting) stay open until 10 p.m.
In 2023, the museum unveiled an incredible new lighting experience that turns the wings into a glowing, colorful display after sundown. It’s especially beautiful from:
- Museum Center Park at the end of Wisconsin Avenue
- The connecting footbridge
- Windhover Hall, where the light reflects through the glass
Kids love watching the huge wings move, and sunset is the most magical time to see them illuminated.
2. Stomp Around Windhover Hall
Kids never forget the moment they walk into this bright, soaring space. The 90-foot glass ceiling, the white marble floor, and the view of Lake Michigan make it a perfect place to wander and explore before or after heading into the galleries.
Best of all, Windhover Hall is always free to the public during regular museum hours.
3. Visit Kohl’s Art Generation Open Studio
Open Saturdays–Sundays, 10 a.m.–4 p.m., and Thursdays 10 a.m.–7 p.m.
Families can explore art materials and techniques connected to the museum’s collection. Themes change each month, so every visit feels different.
It’s hands-on, creative, and one of the most kid-friendly spots in the entire museum.
4. Check Out an ArtPack
Grab a free Artpack or sketch pad from the ArtPack Station outside the Open Studio.
They’re filled with activities kids can do while walking through the galleries — including:
- Sketch packs
- Picture books
- Custom puzzles
- Puppets
- And more
They’re designed for a wide range of ages and attention spans, and truly make the exhibits more engaging.
5. Kohl’s Art Generation Family Sundays
Five times a year, families can enjoy:
- Hands-on art projects
- Visiting artists
- Performances
- Family tours
- Drop-in activities
Each event has its own theme, and it’s one of the museum’s most beloved family traditions.
6. Play Date with Art
This drop-in program is perfect for the youngest museum visitors.
- Singing Time happens at 10:30 a.m. and 11:15 a.m.
- Stroller tours are offered beforehand for kids ages 3 and under (registration required).
It’s a simple, sweet way to introduce art and music to toddlers.
7. Story Time in the Galleries
Every Saturday at 10:30 a.m., kids can hear a story that connects to a piece of art in the galleries. Afterward, they can create their own drawing or story to bring home.
It’s a great way to help kids connect what they’re hearing to what they’re seeing.
8. Take an Art Class for Kids
The museum offers:
- Youth Studio Classes (fall, winter, spring) for ages 6–15
- Summer Art Camp
- Scholarships
It’s a wonderful option for kids who enjoy structured projects or want to dive deeper into specific techniques.
9. Enjoy Lakeside at MAM
This popular outdoor series is completely free to attend. Families can enjoy:
- Art making
- Lawn games
- Local musicians
- Workshops and classes
- Open space for kids to run around
It’s one of the best warm-weather activities near the lakefront.
10. Read “A is for Art”
The museum sells a beautiful alphabet book called A is for Art by Marjorie Nelson Moon, featuring pieces from MAM’s collection.
Read it at home and look for the artworks during your visit — kids love making the connection.
Bonus: Don’t Miss the LOVE Sculpture ❤️
Just outside the museum, the famous LOVE sculpture is a favorite family photo spot.
If you want more picture-perfect ideas, check out our guide to Iconic Milwaukee Photo Spots for Kids and Families.
Things To Do Near the Milwaukee Art Museum
If you’re making a day of it, here are more family-friendly options nearby (all places you already cover on MKE With Kids):
- Discovery World
- Betty Brinn Children’s Museum
- Lakeshore State Park
- Milwaukee Downtown Sculpture Walk
Planning Your Visit to the Milwaukee Art Museum
Planning your visit to the Milwaukee Art Museum? Here are a few things to know before you go:
- Go early if you want quieter galleries.
- Allow time for the wings to flap at noon.
- The Café Level is easiest for diaper changes.
- Strollers are welcome in the galleries.
FAQ
Is the Milwaukee Art Museum good for kids?
Yes — between Artpacks, hands-on studios, Story Time, Play Date with Art, and gorgeous spaces to explore, it’s one of the most family-friendly museums in the city.
Is the museum free for kids?
Kids 12 and under are always free.
Where can I watch the wings?
Great views include Museum Center Park, the footbridge, and Windhover Hall.
Does Windhover Hall require paid admission?
No — this space is always open to the public during regular hours.
Related Posts
- Free Milwaukee Museums
- Living History Museums Around Milwaukee
- Family Guide to Museum of Wisconsin Art in West Bend
- Art & Pottery Painting Studios for Kids
Calie Herbst, Editor-in-Chief of Milwaukee With Kids, has spent over a decade combining her experiences as a parent of three to create a hub for Milwaukee’s family adventures.
Her decade-long teaching career in Milwaukee Public Schools and academic background, including a Master’s in Teaching from Marquette University and dual B.A.s in Sociology and Spanish from the University of Wisconsin – Madison, fuel her passion for inclusive and engaging family content.
Calie is also a recognized voice in local media, contributing to WISN Channel 12 News, WTMJ Wisconsin Morning News, Fox 6’s Real Milwaukee, and B93.3.
Discover more about Calie’s journey and editorial approach on her About Page and Editorial Policy Page.
